NBL Suspends Indian Panthers Amid Payment and Treatment Allegations

Pukekohe, New Zealand – The Indian Panthers have been suspended from the National Basketball League (NBL) for the remainder of the season due to serious allegations regarding player payment and treatment.

The Panthers, owned by India’s INBL Pro league and CEO Parveen Batish, have struggled both on and off the court since their entry into the NBL last year. This turbulent stint includes a winless record of nine games this season, largely attributed to visa delays for their Indian players and commitments to the national team. Consequently, they recruited local New Zealand players to fill the roster.

Head coach Miles Pearce resigned after only one game, further complicating the team’s challenges. A recent match against the Canterbury Rams was marked by player protests regarding unpaid salaries.

In a meeting on Wednesday, all NBL clubs, including the Panthers, addressed league officials where Batish advocated for his team’s continuation in the league. However, the commission announced the decision to suspend the Panthers effective immediately, citing the severity of the claims and an ongoing investigation.

In their statement, the NBL acknowledged the gravity of the allegations and the necessity to safeguard the financial stability of all participating teams. They emphasized that the suspension is not permanent, contingent on the Panthers meeting specific conditions and the completion of the investigation.

Commission chair Tracey Garland expressed disappointment over the situation, noting the initial promise of the Panthers’ franchise for the league and its fans in India and New Zealand.

Garland also confirmed that members of the Panthers’ squad had received their payments, including former player Alex Robinson, with assurances that staff and other creditors would be compensated by May 15. She stressed that the league is fully aware of the alleged breaches and is prioritizing the integrity of the competition.

An investigation into the allegations is underway, with results determining the future of the Indian Panthers in the league.